On the morning of Nov. 13, the Fire Company was dispatched to a possible appliance fire in the kitchen area of a single-family home on Turnpike Road. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames in the rear of the home.

The HVFC was assisted by members of 7 other departments called in for mutual aid -East Haddam, Killingworth, Durham, Chester, Essex, Middletown and Middletown's South District.

The homeowner suffered slight burns but was treated and released at the scene. Haddam Volunteer Ambulance and Chester Ambulance provided emergency medical services.

The home sustained severe damage, and a preliminary investigation by the Haddam Fire Marshal points to an electrical failure although the incident remains under investigation with assistance from the State Fire Marshal's Office.

In training news, a demonstration of ResQtech hydraulic tools at Station 3 featured air bags, cutters, spreaders, combo tools and stabilization struts. Members also attended a propane fire tactics class in Essex.

Drills included hose line advancement at a town garage in Tylerville, as well as ladder work and a chimney fire refresher. Meanwhile, the Fire Company's Christmas Committee and Women's Auxiliary were busy making preparations for the annual Children's Christmas Party.

The HVFC would like to welcome back two of its members who were serving in Afghanistan: John Anderson and Malcolm Meyer. Malcolm's son, Nate, also a member, recently left for Navy recruit training. Best of luck Nate! We hope to have you back safe and sound, and we thank all these gentleman for their service to our country.

The Firefighter 1 class being hosted by the HVFC went up to the CT Fire Academy in Windsor Locks for its live burn exercise, in addition to learning how to extinguish a vehicle fire. After the strenuous morning, the four Haddam classmates took a tour of the academy and viewed the Firefighters' Memorial. All that remains of the class is the Hazardous-Materials portion and testing phase.

As winter hits its stride and snow is more likely, the HVFC asks residents to please plow driveways wide enough for fire trucks to enter, keep house numbers clearly visible, make sure there's a light on for evening calls and if possible, a person at the street to direct responders in. Also take care not to over-do it when shoveling the white fluffy stuff - take frequent breaks and properly hydrate. Should you or a family member feel chest pains or discomfort, dial 911 immediately. Lastly, safely use all heating appliances, particularly wood stoves and fireplaces. Burn only seasoned hardwood to reduce the chances of creosote buildup inside your stove pipe or chimney.

Enjoy it and stay safe. Spring will be here before you know it!

More information on the activities of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Co. and ways you can get involved can be found on our website http://www.HaddamFire.com, or look for us on Facebook.